Spike stops prod’n on ‘1000 Ways’

Halt comes amid unionization push by IATSE and Teamsters

Spike TV has stopped shooting a fourth season of “1000 Ways to Die” after three days of rallies by the Intl. Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees and the Intl. Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 399 outside the Burbank facilities of Original Prods.

The rallies began Monday after producers dismissed about 30 crew members who were attempting to unionize. The unions picketed Wednesday at the production offices and corporate headquarters and Teamsters rep Steve Dayan told Variety that similar protests will probably take place Thursday.

Original said Wednesday that Spike had decided to pull the plug on any more shooting for the current season but did not elaborate.

Original had said Monday that it was not required to recognize the unions as bargaining reps along with issuing the statement, “Original Productions has always offered competitive wages and excellent working conditions.”

The union reps have said that the company has refused to meet with them and blasted the company for not providing health insurance. “That’s the root issue for us, since just an ambulance ride is going to cost a week’s wages,” Dayan said.

“1000 Ways to Die” re-enacts the demise of people who have died under bizarre circumstances. Original also produces reality shows such as “Ice Road Truckers” and “Deadliest Catch” for Discovery.